SAFA election to go ahead after delegates receive death threats

The South African Football Association (SAFA) says several delegates have received death threats before Saturday’s Elective Congress, but the vote for the organisation’s president will proceed as planned.

Security at the venue has been increased after delegates were sent threats, while SAFA said police would be informed.

The election for the SAFA presidency is a contest between incumbent Dr Danny Jordaan and challenger Sandile Zungu. Zungu is known for reviving AmaZulu, while Jordaan is seeking a third term despite announcing in June 2022 that he would not stand for another term.

SAFA confirmed on Friday that the Elective Congress would take place on Saturday, 12 September 2026, despite the threats, harassment and attempts at intimidation.

“SAFA takes these threats very seriously and the police will be notified accordingly,” the association said in a statement.

“The SAFA Elective Congress will be held on Saturday, 12 September 2026 and security around the venue has been tightened after the threats were sent to the delegates.”

SAFA said the latest incidents followed earlier efforts to disrupt the election and question the validity of its procedures.

“These threats and intimidation are an escalation after the calculated attempts to derail the Elective Congress and cast aspersions about the processes failed to achieve the desired objective,” it added.

“The Elective Congress will go ahead as planned after weeks of planning and preparation, and SAFA will protect the right of its members to freely exercise their right to elect leaders of their choice.”

The elections will cover more than the presidential position. Members will also vote for the national executive committee and the provincial office.

SAFA held an Extraordinary NEC Meeting in Midrand on Friday, one day before the Elective Congress.

The voting members on 12 September 2026 will be the Regions, the Premier Soccer League as the Special Member and Associate Members.

SAFA has invited a number of football and sporting figures and organisations to attend the congress. Those invited include FIFA, CAF, COSAFA, SASCOC, Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie and legends of the game, among others.